Solar power unit and system

ABSTRACT

One aspect of the present invention relates to a solar power unit comprising a frame, configured to be integrated into a building structure, for supporting a solar panel, the solar panel for generating a power signal, and a front cover for securing the solar panel to the frame.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application is a U.S. continuation-in-part patentapplication of, and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §120 to, U.S. designpatent application Ser. No. 29/426,688, filed Jul. 9, 2012, a U.S.nonprovisional patent application of, and claims priority under 35U.S.C. §119(e) to, U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No.61/710,709, filed Oct. 6, 2012, and U.S. provisional patent applicationSer. No. 61/734,967, filed Dec. 8, 2012, which design and provisionalpatent applications are incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to solar power. Morespecifically, the present invention relates to an integrated solar powerunit and system.

BACKGROUND

With massive energy demands on our cities, existing surfaces of ourbuilt environment fail to harvest and utilize potential solar energy.Existing solar arrays on rooftops are far removed from the architectureof our daily lives and require clumsy equipment that is neitherintegrated nor aesthetically considered. Also, existing products, forexample, solar roofing tile, translucent photovoltaic window modules,and façade panels, do not have the components (e.g., battery, inverter,and other electronics) integrated with the product.

Other existing products have the same issues that typical roof-mountedsystems have, complicated wiring configurations that connect toelectrical equipment located inside the building. These products arealso not structural. Typical solar panels that are applied to the façadeor roof of the building are mounted on top of structural buildingmaterials.

Therefore, there exists a need for an architecturally integratedtechnology system that collects, stores, and transforms solar energyinto usable electricity. The system may also serve as the structural,exterior finish material of the building, and protect the building fromenvironmental forces (rain, wind, UV degradation, etc.).

SUMMARY

The present invention includes many aspects and features. Moreover,while many aspects and features may be described with respect tohealthcare, the present invention is not limited to use only inhealthcare, as will become apparent from the following summaries anddetailed descriptions of aspects, features, and one or more embodimentsof the present invention. Indeed, the user interfaces and user interfacemethodologies are generally as applicable in healthcare as in otherindustries outside of healthcare.

Accordingly, one aspect of the present invention relates to a solarpower unit comprising a frame, configured to be integrated into abuilding structure, for supporting a solar panel, the solar panel forgenerating a power signal, and a front cover for securing the solarpanel to the frame.

In a feature of this aspect, the frame includes a bottom panel having afirst and second bottom panel portion, wherein the second bottom panelportion is angled a certain amount of degrees such that the solar panelis set at an appropriate tilt angel with the solar panel is supported bythe frame.

In a feature of this aspect, the solar power unit further comprising apower component, the power component including an inverter forconverting the power signal from the solar panel to an AC signal, and apower outlet for providing the AC signal to an electronic device coupledto the power outlet.

In a feature of this aspect, the power outlet is at least one of aUniversal Serial Bus (USB) and an electrical outlet.

In a feature of this aspect, the power component further includes abattery for storing the power signal generated by the solar panel andforwarding the power signal to the inverter when the power outlet iscoupled to an electronic device.

In a feature of this aspect, the frame further includes a top panelhaving a first and second top panel portion.

In a feature of this aspect, the building structure is an exterior wallcomprising a plurality of building blocks.

In a feature of this aspect, the first top panel portion and the firstbottom panel portion are parallel to each other.

In a feature of this aspect, the building blocks are cinder blocks,wherein the frame of the solar power unit is slid over one of pluralityof cinder blocks, such that the first top panel portion and the bottompanel portion are engaged with the top and bottom of the one cinderblock, respectively.

In a feature of this aspect, the first top panel portion and the firstbottom panel portion are bent 90° up and down, respectively.

In a feature of this aspect, the building blocks are cinder blocks; andwherein the solar power unit is attached to one of the plurality ofcinder blocks through the first top panel portion and the first bottompanel portion.

In a feature of this aspect, the power component further includes acharge controller for protecting the battery from overcharging.

Another aspect of the present invention relates to a solar power systemcomprising a plurality of solar power units, each of the plurality ofsolar power units comprising a frame, configured to be integrated into abuilding structure, for supporting a solar panel, the solar panel forgenerating a power signal, and a front cover for securing the solarpanel to the frame.

In a feature of this aspect, the frame includes a bottom panel having afirst and second bottom panel portion, wherein the second bottom panelportion is angled a certain amount of degrees such that the solar panelis set at an appropriate tilt angel with the solar panel is supported bythe frame.

In a feature of this aspect, at least one of the plurality of solarpower units further comprises a power component, the power componentincluding an inverter for converting the power signal from the solarpanel to an AC signal, and a power outlet for providing the AC signal toan electronic device coupled to the power outlet.

In a feature of this aspect, the power outlet is at least one of aUniversal Serial Bus (USB) and an electrical outlet.

In a feature of this aspect, the power component further includes abattery for storing the power signal generated by the solar panel andforwarding the power signal to the inverter when the power outlet iscoupled to an electronic device.

In a feature of this aspect, the frames of each of the plurality ofsolar power units further includes a top panel having a first and secondtop panel portion.

In a feature of this aspect, the building structure is an exterior wallcomprising a plurality of building blocks.

In a feature of this aspect, the first top panel portion and the firstbottom panel portion are parallel to each other.

In a feature of this aspect, the building blocks are cinder blocks,wherein the frame of each of the plurality of solar power units is slidover one of the plurality of cinder blocks, such that each of the firsttop panel portion and the bottom panel portion of the plurality of solarpower units are engaged with the top and bottom of the respective cinderblocks, respectively.

In a feature of this aspect, the plurality of solar power units areconnected in series with one another.

In a feature of this aspect, the plurality of solar power units areconnected in parallel with one another.

In a feature of this aspect, the first top panel portion and the firstbottom panel portion of each of the plurality of solar power units arebent 90° up and down, respectively.

In a feature of this aspect, the building blocks are cinder blocks; andwherein each of the solar power units is attached to one of theplurality of cinder blocks through the first top panel portion and thefirst bottom panel portion.

In a feature of this aspect, the power component further includes acharge controller for protecting the battery from overcharging.

Another aspect of the present invention relates to a solar wall modulefor installation in a building frame comprising a solar power systemincluding a plurality of solar power units, the solar power unitscomprising a frame, configured to be integrated into a buildingstructure, for supporting a solar panel, the solar panel for generatinga power signal, and a front cover for securing the solar panel to theframe, and a wall assembly for supporting the solar power system.

In a feature of this aspect, the frame of each of the solar power unitsincludes a bottom panel having a first and second bottom panel portion,wherein the second bottom panel portion is angled a certain amount ofdegrees such that the solar panel is set at an appropriate tilt angelwhen the solar panel is attached to the frame.

In a feature of this aspect, the wall assembly comprises a powercomponent, the power component, coupled to the solar power system,includes a battery for storing the power signal generated by the solarpower system, and an inverter for converting the stored power signalfrom the battery to an AC signal, and a power outlet, coupled to thepower component, for providing the AC signal to an electronic device.

In a feature of this aspect, the power component further includes acharge controller for protecting the battery from overcharging.

In a feature of this aspect, the frames of each of the plurality ofsolar power units further includes a top panel having a first and secondtop panel portion.

In a feature of this aspect, the first top panel portion and the firstbottom panel portion of each of the plurality of solar power units arebent 90° up and down, respectively.

In a feature of this aspect, each of the solar power units is attachedto the wall assembly through the first top panel portion and the firstbottom panel portion.

In a feature of this aspect, each of the solar power units are connectedin series.

In a feature of this aspect, the wall assembly comprises an outerbarrier including furring strips for supporting the solar power system,and sheathing for protecting the inside of the building from the weatherelements, and an inner barrier including a cavity for housing the powercomponent, studs for supporting the wall assembly within the buildingframe, and wall board for providing an interior rigid material which maybe painted or covered with a finishing material to blend the wallassembly in with the inside of the building.

Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method forintegrating a solar power unit into a building structure, the buildingstructure including a plurality of building blocks, the solar power unitfor generating a power signal, the method comprising the steps ofattaching the solar power unit to the building block, and installing thebuilding block with the building structure.

In a feature of this aspect, the building structure is an exterior wall;wherein the building blocks of the external wall are cinder blocks.

In a feature of this aspect, the building structure is a new wall andunder construction; wherein the building block with the solar power unitattached is placed above and below a plurality of building blocks, eachof the building blocks bonded to the other building blocks with abonding material.

In a feature of this aspect, the bonding material is mortar.

Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method forinstalling a solar power unit on an existing building structure, thesolar power unit, for generating a power signal, comprising a frame forsupporting a solar panel, the building structure including a pluralityof building blocks, the method comprising attaching the solar power unitto the building block through a first top and bottom panel portion ofthe frame.

In a feature of this aspect, the solar power unit is attached to thebuilding block using screws.

In a feature of this aspect, the building block is a cinder block.

In addition to the aforementioned aspects and features of the presentinvention, it should be noted that the present invention furtherencompasses the various possible combinations and subcombinations ofsuch aspects and features. Thus, for example, any aspect may be combinedwith an aforementioned feature in accordance with the present inventionwithout requiring any other aspect or feature.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING(S)

A more detailed understanding of the disclosed system and method may behad from the following description, given by way of example and to beunderstood in conjunction with the accompanying drawing.

FIG. 1 is an example illustration of a disclosed solar power unit;

FIG. 2 is an example illustration of an alternative of the solar powerunit shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an example illustration of another alternative of the solarpower unit shown in FIG. 1;

FIGS. 4 and 5 are example illustrations of exploded views of a frame inaccordance with the disclosed solar power unit shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is an example illustration of the fabrication of the disclosedframe of the disclosed solar power unit;

FIG. 7 is an example illustration of the disclosed solar power unitincluding a power component;

FIG. 8 is an example illustration of a method for integrating thedisclosed solar power unit with a cinder block;

FIG. 9 is an example illustration of the disclosed solar power unitfitted over a cinder block;

FIG. 10 is an example illustration of a cross-sectional view of thesolar power unit shown in FIG. 9, including a power component;

FIG. 11 is an example illustration of the alternative implementation ofthe disclosed solar power unit installed on a pre-existing wall;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the alternative solar power unitshown in FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is an example illustration of a method for integrating thedisclosed solar power unit into a wall being built;

FIG. 14 is an example illustration of a method for integrating thedisclosed solar power unit within an existing wall;

FIG. 15 is an example illustration of a disclosed solar power systemincluding a plurality of solar power units;

FIG. 16 is an example circuit diagram of the disclosed solar powersystem shown in FIG. 15 wherein the plurality of solar power units areconnected in series;

FIG. 17 is an example circuit diagram of the disclosed solar powersystem shown in FIG. 15 wherein the plurality of solar power units areconnected in parallel;

FIG. 18 is an example illustration of the building of a cinder blockwall including the disclosed solar power units;

FIG. 19 is an example illustration of the alternative solar power unit,including a positive and negative leads and lead cavities;

FIG. 20 is an example circuit diagram of the solar power system of FIG.18, wherein the plurality of solar power units are connected in series;

FIG. 21 is an example circuit diagram of the solar power system of FIG.18, wherein the plurality of solar power units are connected inparallel;

FIG. 22 is an example illustration of a method for installing the solarpower units into a new wall;

FIG. 23 is an example illustration of a cross-sectional view of thedisclosed solar power unit shown in FIG. 18;

FIG. 24 is an example illustration of a disclosed solar wall module;

FIG. 25 is an example illustration of a cross-sectional view of thesolar wall module shown in FIG. 24;

FIG. 26 is an example illustration of a frame included in the disclosedsolar wall module shown in FIG. 24;

FIG. 27 is an example illustration of a plurality of frames shown inFIG. 26 attached together for use in the solar wall module;

FIG. 28 is an example illustration of an exploded view of the disclosedsolar wall module shown in FIG. 24;

FIG. 29 is an example illustration of a rear perspective view of thedisclosed solar wall module shown in FIG. 24;

FIG. 30 is an example illustration of the power component included inthe disclosed solar wall module; and

FIG. 31 is an example illustration of a plurality of solar wall modulesinstalled in a home.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by one havingordinary skill in the relevant art (“Ordinary Artisan”) that the presentinvention has broad utility and application. As should be understood,any embodiment may incorporate only one or a plurality of theabove-disclosed aspects of the invention and may further incorporateonly one or a plurality of the above-disclosed features. Furthermore,any embodiment discussed and identified as being “preferred” isconsidered to be part of a best mode contemplated for carrying out thepresent invention. Other embodiments also may be discussed foradditional illustrative purposes in providing a full and enablingdisclosure of the present invention. As should be understood, anyembodiment may incorporate only one or a plurality of theabove-disclosed aspects of the invention and may further incorporateonly one or a plurality of the above-disclosed features. Moreover, manyembodiments, such as adaptations, variations, modifications, andequivalent arrangements, will be implicitly disclosed by the embodimentsdescribed herein and fall within the scope of the present invention.

Accordingly, while the present invention is described herein in detailin relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that thisdisclosure is illustrative and exemplary of the present invention, andis made merely for the purposes of providing a full and enablingdisclosure of the present invention. The detailed disclosure herein ofone or more embodiments is not intended, nor is to be construed, tolimit the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention,which scope is to be defined by the claims and the equivalents thereof.It is not intended that the scope of patent protection afforded thepresent invention be defined by reading into any claim a limitationfound herein that does not explicitly appear in the claim itself.

A disclosed solar power unit may be used in many situations. As a standalone unit, the solar power unit may be a portable power source used topower an electronic device or charge a battery. The solar power unit mayalso be integrated into a building structure, for example, a residentialdeck or exterior wall, a commercial building exterior wall, or publicstructure, such as a cinderblock wall in a park or public club house,for generating a renewable power source.

FIG. 1 is an example illustration of an implementation of a disclosedsolar power unit 100. The solar power unit 100 comprises a solar panel102, a frame 103 and a front cover 101. The solar panel 102, forexample, a photovoltaic panel, converts the sun's solar energy to anelectric signal, e.g., a direct current (DC) power signal.

In a preferred implementation, the solar panel 102 is supported in placewithin the front cover 101, preferably by slots or grooves on the rearof the front cover 101 that prevent the solar panel 102 from moving.Once the solar panel 102 is held within the front cover 101, the frontcover 101 is be attached to the frame 103 preferably using screws, butany means of attaching the front cover 101 to the frame 103 can be used.The front cover 101 preferably may be removed and re-attached asrequired. Example illustrations of the frame 103 and front cover 101 areshown in FIGS. 4 and 5.

Referring to FIG. 5, the front cover 101 includes a panel opening 106for allowing the solar panel 102 to receive the solar energy from thesun while the solar panel 102 and front cover 101 are attached to theframe 103. In a preferred solar power unit 100, the front cover 101further includes a front cover output opening 105 for receiving a poweroutput device 104, for example an electrical outlet, USB port, etc.

The frame 103 includes a front panel 131, a left and right side panel132, a top panel 133 and a bottom panel 134. The front panel 131includes an access opening 111 to allow a component, for example acharge controller, inverter, or power output device, to be coupled tothe output of the solar panel 102, to be disclosed in greater detailbelow. In a preferred implementation, the front panel 131 furtherincludes at least one power output device opening 136 for providing anopening to insert a power output device, wherein one of the at least onefront panel output device openings 136 is lined up with the front coveroutput opening 105.

The left and right side panels 132 are attached to the left and rightedges of the front panel 131. In accordance with the disclosed solarpower unit 100, the right and left side panels 132 are shaped such thatwhen attached to the front panel 131, the front panel 131 is positionedat an angle relative to the ground. The angle at which the front panel131 is situated preferably depends upon the angle best suited to allowthe solar panel 102 to receive as much of the sun's solar energy aspossible, i.e., receive the most direct sun light for the longest periodof time during the day. Those having skill in the art know thatdiffering locations require different angles due to the sun'spositioning in the sky over that location. This angle is referred to asthe tilt angle.

The top panel 133 is attached to the top edges of the front panel 131and the right and left panels 132 such that the top panel 133 isparallel to the ground. Preferably, the top panel 133 is a flat piece ofmaterial that extends beyond the back edge of the right and left sidepanels 132. In a preferred implementation of the solar power unit 100,the top panel 133 is perforated, illustrated in FIG. 2, to be disclosedbelow. Alternatively, the material of the top panel 133 that extendsbeyond the back edge of the right and left side panels 132 may be bentupwards 90°, for example, such that the solar power unit 100 may beattached to an existing building structure, as illustrated in FIG. 3, tobe disclosed in further detail below.

Referring back to FIG. 5, the bottom panel 134 is attached to the bottomedges of the front panel 131 and the left and right panels 132. Inaccordance with the disclosed solar power unit 100, and it alternatives,the bottom panel 134 is similar to the top panel 133.

An example illustration of how the frame 103 of the disclosed solarpower unit 100 may be fabricated is shown in FIG. 6. A flat panel madeof any type of material for the frame and front cover may be used. Inaccordance with the disclosed solar power unit, the material of theframe and front cover is sheet metal, but other materials may be used,for example, plastic. A stencil of the frame and front cover are set onthe flat panel and cut out. Once the frame and front cover are cut fromthe flat panel, the flat frame and flat front covers are cut and foldedalong the specified lines to form the frame and front cover used in thesolar power unit.

As stated above, the power signal generated by the solar panel may becoupled to a power component that utilizes the output power signal. FIG.7 illustrates an example power component 710 included in the solar powerunit 700. As a standalone solar power unit 700, the solar panel (notshown) may be coupled to the power component 710, which includes aninverter 716. The inverter 716 converts the received DC power signalfrom the solar panel to an AC power signal. In this implementation, apower outlet 704 is coupled to the power component 710. When anelectronic device is plugged into the solar power unit 700, thegenerated AC power signal is used to power the electronic device.

In this implementation of the disclosed solar power unit 700, the powercomponent 710 further includes a charge controller 719 and a battery711. The charge controller 719, coupled to the solar panel 702 and thebattery 711, receives the DC power signal generated by the solar panel702 and forwards the DC power signal to the battery 711. The battery 711then stores the DC power received for later use or forwards the signalto the inverter 716 when the power output device 704 is being used. Thecharge controller 719, as those having skill in the art know, alsoregulates the charging of the battery 711 to prevent over charging whenthe power generated by the solar power unit 700 is not being used by adevice or other power sink.

The battery 711, coupled to the charge controller 719 and the inverter716, stores the DC power generated by the solar power panel and forwardsthe stored DC power signal to the inverter 716. As disclosed above, theinverter 716 then converts the stored DC power signal to an AC powersignal when the power output device 704 is being used. Although thisimplementation of the power component is disclosed as including abattery, charge controller and inverter, if should be noted that thepower component may only include a battery or an inverter, with orwithout the other.

The power component 710 is preferably secured within the frame 703 of astandalone unit 700 by a back panel, not illustrated. Alternatively, thepower component 710 may float within the frame 703.

As a standalone unit, the disclosed solar power unit may be used as apower source anywhere. With or without a power outlet, a device orbattery may be coupled directly to the solar panel of the solar powerunit through the back access opening of the frame and operatedaccordingly.

In an alternative implementation of the disclosed solar power unit, thesolar power unit may be integrated into an existing wall or buildingstructure, or included in a new building structure as it is being built.For example, the solar power unit may be integrated into an existingexterior wall or other building or landscape structure, wherein the wallmay be made up of building blocks. The building blocks may be made ofany building material used for this purpose, for example, concrete,stone blocks, bricks, etc. For purposes of this disclosure, the buildingblocks are cinder blocks. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the frame 803 isfabricated to fit over the cinder block 807. Accordingly, the solarpower unit 800 may be slid over a cinder block and used in apre-existing or newly built wall.

FIG. 8 illustrates an example method of integrating the disclosed solarpower unit 800 with a cinder block 807. In accordance with thisdisclosed implementation, the frame 803 and the front cover 801 aredesigned to fit over a cinder block 807. The top and bottom panels 809,808 are flat and preferably include perforations. The solar power unit800 also includes a battery and inverter, not shown. A power outputsource 804 is coupled to the inverter, receives the AC power signal fromthe inverter, and provides power to a device coupled to the power outputsource 804, e.g., an electronic device.

In an implementation, the solar power unit 800 may be installed bysliding the frame 803, including the solar panel 802 and front cover801, over the cinder block 807 such that the top and bottom panels 809,808 are covering a portion of the top and bottom of the cinder block807. In accordance with this implementation, the battery and inverterare situated within the frame 803 such that when the cinder block 807 isslid into the frame 803, the battery and inverter are housed freelybetween the front panel (not shown) and the front of the cinder block807. Alternatively, a back panel may be included in the frame 803 suchthat the top and bottom panels 809, 808 hang over the back panel and thecinder block 807 slides against the back panel.

As disclosed, the top and bottom panels 809, 808 are perforated suchthat when cinder blocks are placed above and below the integrated solarpower unit 800, the bonding material used to build the wall, i.e.,mortar, may still bond with the cinder block 807 while within the frame803. An example illustration of this disclosed implementation is shownin FIG. 10.

This implementation of the solar power unit may also be integrated intoan existing wall wherein the frame of the solar power unit is slid intocutouts in the existing building structure, such as an exterior concretewall. An example illustration of this implementation can be seen in FIG.14.

Further, the alternative solar power unit illustrated in FIG. 3 may beinstalled on a preexisting wall as well. In accordance with thisimplementation, the top and bottom panels are bent to allow the solarpower unit to be attached to a building structure. In FIG. 11, thebuilding structure is a pre-existing cinder block wall. Once attached tothe wall, the power output source 1104 may be used to power anelectronic device.

Referring to FIG. 12, a cross-sectional view of the solar power unitillustrated in FIG. 11, it is preferable that the solar power unit 1100includes a battery 1111 and inverter 1116, as described above. Asillustrated in FIG. 12, the solar power unit 1100 may be attached to theexisting wall using screws 1190. Accordingly, the screws 1190 aredrilled through the top 1133 and bottom 1134 panels and into the mortar1127 between each cinder block 1126. Although, screws have beendisclosed as the manner for attaching the alternative solar power unitto an existing wall, other means know to those having skill in the artmay be used, e.g., an adhesive glue or tape.

In another disclosed implementation, a plurality of solar power unitsare included in a solar power system, as illustrated in FIG. 15. Asillustrated, solar power system 1500 comprises a plurality of solarpower units 1510 _(1 . .) . 1510 _(n). The solar power system 1500 mayprovide power to the building in which the wall supports or to anydevices that may be able to connect thereto. This solar power system1500 therefore may or may not include a storage device, depending on thepurpose of the system 1500. As such, the power being generated by thesolar power system 1500 and not used by the building, may then be soldto the electric power company, providing the owner of the building withan additional income stream.

Each solar power unit 1510 in the disclosed implementation may becoupled to one another in series or parallel, depending on theimplementation. For example, if the solar power system was being used asa power source to a building, the solar power units 1510 _(1 . . . n)may be electrically coupled in series. An example circuit diagram ofserially connected solar power units 1510 can be seen in FIG. 16.

Referring back to FIG. 15, if the solar power system 1500 was to providemore than a single source of power, the solar power system 1500 may besectioned off such that the groups of the plurality of solar power units1510 are electrically coupled in parallel to one another. An examplecircuit diagram of this implementation can be seen in FIG. 17.

FIG. 18 illustrates an example solar power system 1800 including aplurality of alternative solar power units 1801 _(1 . . . n). Each solarpower unit 1801 includes a positive lead (+) 1823 and negative lead (−)1824. An example solar power unit in accordance with this implementationis illustrated in FIG. 19.

As illustrated in FIG. 19, the solar power unit 1800 comprises leadcavities 1833 and 1834 and a positive lead 1823 and negative lead 1824.In accordance with this disclosure, lead cavities 1833 and 1834 arefemale connectors for additional solar power units 1800 to electricallyconnect to one another as shown in FIG. 18.

Referring back to FIG. 18, each of a plurality of solar power units 1801n in the solar power system 1800 may be coupled to a solar power unit1801 n above it through its positive lead 1823 n or negative lead 1824n, and below the unit through the lead cavities. As disclosed above,depending on how the energy generated by the solar power system may becoupled to one another in series or parallel. Example circuit diagramsof the solar power units 1801 connected in series and parallel inaccordance with this disclosed implementation are illustrated in FIGS.20 and 21, respectively.

In accordance with this implementation, each solar power unit 2210 ofthe solar power system 2200 may be installed as illustrated in FIG. 22.As illustrated in FIG. 22 and disclosed above, the frame 2203 includes aperforated top and bottom panel 2207, 2208, respectively. Once the lowersection of the wall is installed including the solar power unit 2210 ₁,mortar or other bonding substance 2240 can be spread over the cinderblock 2217 ₁. Because the top panel 2207 ₁ is perforated, the bondingmaterial is able to adhere to the cinder block 2217 ₁.

The solar power unit 2210 ₂ is then installed on top of the solar powerunit 2210 ₁. Again, because the bottom panel of the solar power unit2210 ₂, the bonding substance 2240 is able to bond to the cinderblock2217 ₁. Depending on the how the solar power units 2210 are electricallyconnected, the lead 2224 ₁, 2223 ₁ are connected to lead cavity(ies)2233 ₂, 2234 ₂ accordingly.

In this implementation, it is a preferred feature to include additionalperforations 2253 ₂ in the angled portion of a solar power unit's 2210 ₂bottom panel 2208 ₂. Similarly, perforations may be added to the portionof the top panel 2210 ₁ that is not engaged with the cinder block 2217 ₁of this disclosed implementation. The inclusion of these perforationsallow air to flow through the solar power units 2210 to cool the solarpower unit 2210 and assist in drying the unit 2210 after wet weather.

FIG. 23 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the disclosed solar powersystem in a building structure shown in FIG. 18, including a pluralityof building blocks 1807 ₁, 1807 ₂, 1807 ₃. As shown in FIG. 23, solarpower units 1800 ₁, 1800 ₂, 1800 ₃ are each slid over building blocks1807 ₁, 1807 ₂, 1807 ₃, and electrically connected to each other atleads 1824 ₁ and 1824 ₃ through lead cavities 1825 ₁ and 1825 ₂.

FIG. 18 also illustrates the building of a building structure 1800including a plurality of building blocks 1807 ₁ . . . 1807 _(n), and aplurality of solar power units 1801 ₁ . . . 1801 _(n) electricallyconnected to one another to provide power to electrical outlet 1804included in solar power unit 1801 ₁. Once the building structure iscomplete, a user may then connect an electronic device, requiring a DCpower source, to be powered through outlet 1804 of solar power unit 1801₁, using the power generated by the plurality of solar power units 1801₁ . . . 1801 _(n).

In accordance with an alternative implementation, a solar wall module isdisclosed. FIG. 24 illustrates an example solar wall module 2400 inaccordance with this implementation. The solar wall module 2400comprises a plurality of solar power units 2410 _(1 . . . n) and wallassembly 2420. As disclosed above, the solar power unit 2410 may includetop and bottom panels that are bent 90° up and down, respectively, suchthat the solar power units can be attached to an existing wall. Inaccordance with this implementation, each of the plurality of solarpanel users are attached to the wall assembly for integrating with abuilding wall.

An example cross-sectional illustration of the solar wall assembly 2400is shown in FIG. 25. As illustrated in FIG. 25, the solar power units2410 are attached to each other and to the wall assembly 2420 usingscrews 2460. Although screws have been disclosed, it should be notedthat any means of supporting the plurality of solar power units on thewall assembly may be used.

An example frame for each of the solar power units 2410 included in thedisclosed solar wall assembly is illustrated in FIG. 26. The frame 2415comprises a top panel 2604, a bottom panel 2602, and a face plate 2603.As disclosed above, the top and bottom panels 2602, 2604 are bent 90° upand down, respectively, to attached the frame 2115 to the wall assembly.It is preferable that the top and bottom panels 2602, 2604 includeperforations in the portions of the panels that are not attached to thewall assembly to allow for air to flow through the unit.

The face plate 2603 is attached to the top and bottom panels 2602, 2604and supports the solar panel. One or more access openings 2605 areincluded on the face plate 2603 to allow connections to the one or moresolar panels.

In accordance with a preferred fabrication of the frame 2415, the bentportion of the top panel 2603 ₂ of frame 2415 ₂ is attached to the bentportion of the bottom panel 2602 ₁ of frame 2415 _(1,), and so on. Anexample illustration of the frames attached in this manner is shown inFIG. 27.

Referring back to FIG. 24, solar panels 2401 _(1 . . . n) are attachedto the frame 2415 _(1 . . . n) directly using screws, for example, or afront cover (not shown) as disclosed above.

The wall assembly 2420, attached to the plurality of solar power units2410 _(1 . . . n), supports the solar power units in the buildingstructure and acts as a part of a wall for the building structure. Anexploded view of the solar wall module 2400 is illustrated in FIG. 28.The wall assembly comprises an outer barrier and an inner barrier. Theouter barrier is the portion of the wall assembly that is directlytouching the solar power system, and includes a water barrier 2422,furring strip 2421 and sheathing 2423. An air and water barrier 2422material may serve as a drainage plane for water to escape quickly atthe bottom of the panel. This material may also prevent water andoutside air from penetrating into the building. Metal flashing 2424 mayalso be included in the outer barrier to protect against water enteringin the walls.

Since the disclosed implementation is a wall module that will be fittingwithin the framework of a building structure, the wall assembly's 2420inner barrier includes two studs 2450, preferably spaced apart the samedistance as the studs in the other portions of the building structure,for example 24″. The height of the studs 2450 depends on the sizeselection of the solar wall module 2400. Structural studs could be madeof wood or metal and may serve as the structural layer of the assembly2420 to enable the solar wall module 2400 to be robust and withstandwind loads.

The inner barrier further includes a rigid insulation core 2426 that maybe used as a thermal barrier and to prevent unwanted hot and cold airfrom penetrating into the building and significantly lowering utilitybills. A moisture barrier 2427 may be used to prevent condensation frombuilding up within the insulation 2426. Gypsum board or wall board 2429may be used to provide an interior rigid material which may be paintedor covered with a finishing material like paint, wall-paper, or woodtrim, etc.

The solar wall module 2400 further includes a power component 2428. Asillustrated in FIGS. 28 and 30, the power component 2428 is preferablyenclosed within a cavity in the insulation 2426 and the wall board 2429.The power component 2428 comprises an inverter 3072, a battery 3073 andcharge controller 3071. The inverter 3072 may be equipped with atraditional 120 volt outlet and can be accessed and plugged directlyinto from either the interior, as shown in FIG. 30, or exterior side ofthe wall, as shown in FIG. 24.

A removable metal panel 2430 may cover the pocket of the wall that holdspower components. The panel 2430 may be perforated to allow ventilationto the equipment and accommodates a socket for the outlet.

FIG. 31 illustrates an example of a plurality of solar wall modules 2400_(1 . . . n) installed in a building structure, such as a residentialhome.

The disclosed solar power unit is an improvement over existing BuildingIntegrated Photovoltaic products for several reasons. As disclosedabove, the solar power unit may be an all-in-one, plug-n-play system.Also, the disclosed solar power units are structurally integrated andmay significantly reduce cost by serving as both the structural layerand exterior, finish layer, of the building.

The disclosed solar power system replaces, or can be used in conjunctionwith traditional building material and may be integrated with concreteblock or brick in the same wall system. The entire wall does not have toentirely be made out of the solar power systems. For example, a customermay have a specific energy load (electric lighting) that they areinterested in generating from the Solar Power systems. The number ofunits that would generate this electric load would be utilized and therest of the wall may be constructed with another traditional blockmaterial.

There are many commercial applications for this product. Not only canthe Solar Power Units be utilized for new building construction projects(commercial, residential, industrial, civil, educational, etc.), theycan also be utilized for retrofit applications as well, over existingfacades and serve as charging walls for electric devices or vehicles.

Since the solar power unit is designed to be a modular unit, it may beutilized for many applications at varying scales. The units may become apart of our daily lives. Walls of cities and towns may replace powerplants.

Based on the foregoing description, it will be readily understood bythose persons skilled in the art that the present invention issusceptible of broad utility and application. Many embodiments andadaptations of the present invention other than those specificallydescribed herein, as well as many variations, modifications, andequivalent arrangements, will be apparent from or reasonably suggestedby the present invention and the foregoing descriptions thereof, withoutdeparting from the substance or scope of the present invention.Accordingly, while the present invention has been described herein indetail in relation to one or more preferred embodiments, it is to beunderstood that this disclosure is only illustrative and exemplary ofthe present invention and is made merely for the purpose of providing afull and enabling disclosure of the invention. The foregoing disclosureis not intended to be construed to limit the present invention orotherwise exclude any such other embodiments, adaptations, variations,modifications or equivalent arrangements, the present invention beinglimited only by the claims appended hereto and the equivalents thereof.

What is claimed is:
 1. A solar power unit comprising: a frame forsupporting a solar panel and configured to be integrated into a buildingstructure, the building comprising a plurality of building blocksstacked on top of each other, the frame including a top panel, and abottom panel having a first and second bottom panel portion, wherein thesecond bottom panel portion is angled such that the solar panel is setat a tilt angle when the solar panel is supported by the frame, thesolar panel for generating a power signal; a front cover for securingthe solar panel to the frame; and a power component including: aninverter for converting the power signal from the solar panel to an ACsignal; and a power outlet for providing the AC signal to an electronicdevice coupled to the power outlet, wherein the power outlet is at leastone of a Universal Serial Bus (USB) and an electrical outlet; whereinthe top panel and the first bottom panel portion are spaced apart toallow a first of the building blocks to be disposed between the toppanel and the first bottom panel portion, and wherein the top panel isdisposed between the first building block and a second building blockstacked on and adjacent to the first building block.
 2. The solar powerunit of claim 1, wherein the power component further includes a batteryfor storing the power signal generated by the solar panel and forwardingthe power signal to the inverter when the power outlet is coupled to anelectronic device; and a charge controller for protecting the batteryfrom overcharging.
 3. The solar power unit of claim 2, wherein thebuilding blocks comprise cinder blocks.
 4. A solar power systemcomprising: a plurality of solar power units, each of the plurality ofsolar power units comprising: a frame for supporting a solar panel andconfigured to be integrated into a building structure, the buildingstructure comprising a plurality of building blocks; and the frameincluding a top panel and bottom panel having a first and second bottompanel portion, wherein the second bottom panel portion is angled suchthat the solar panel is set at a tilt angle when the solar panel issupported by the frame, the solar panel for generating a power signal;and a front cover for securing the solar panel to the frame; wherein thetop panel and the first bottom panel portion of each of the plurality ofsolar power units are spaced apart to allow one of the plurality ofbuilding blocks to be disposed between the top panel and the firstbottom panel portion; and wherein at least one of the solar power unitscomprises a power component, the power component including: an inverterfor converting the power signal from the solar panel to an AC signal;and a power outlet for providing the AC signal to an electronic devicecoupled to the power outlet, wherein the power outlet is at least one ofa Universal Serial Bus (USB) and an electrical outlet.
 5. The solarpower system of claim 4, wherein at least a portion of the plurality ofsolar power units are electrically connected to one another in at leastone of a series configuration and a parallel configuration.
 6. The solarpower system of claim 5, wherein the power component of the at least oneof the plurality of solar power units further includes a battery forstoring the power signal generated by the plurality of solar power unitsand forwarding the power signal to the inverter when the power outlet iscoupled to an electronic device; and a charge controller for protectingthe battery from overcharging.
 7. The solar power system of claim 6,wherein the top panel of each of the plurality of solar power unitsfurther includes a first and second top panel portion.
 8. The solarpower system of claim 5, wherein at least a portion of the plurality ofsolar power units includes a positive lead, a negative lead, and twolead cavities, wherein one of the positive lead and the negative lead ofone of the plurality of solar power units is electrically connected to alead cavity of a second of the plurality of solar power units.
 9. Thesolar power system of claim 4, wherein the plurality of building blocksincludes a first, second and third building block stacked on top of eachother; and wherein the top panel of one of the plurality of solar powerunits is disposed between the first and second of the plurality ofbuilding blocks and the first bottom panel portion of the solar powerunit is disposed between the second and third of the plurality ofbuilding blocks.
 10. A wall of a building, comprising: building blocksstacked adjacent to and on top of one another, wherein the buildingblocks are held together using a bonding material; and a plurality ofsolar power units, each solar power unit comprising: a frame forsupporting a solar panel including a top panel, and a bottom panelhaving a first and second bottom panel wherein the second bottom panelportion is angled such that the solar cell is set at a tilt angle whenthe solar panel is supported by the frame, the solar panel forgenerating a power signal; and a front cover for securing the solarpanel to the frame; and wherein at least a portion of the plurality ofsolar power units comprises: a power component including: an inverterfor converting the power signal from the solar panel to an AC signal;and a power outlet for providing the AC signal to an electronic devicecoupled to a power outlet, wherein the power outlet is at least one of aUniversal Serial Bus (USB) and an electrical outlet; and wherein the toppanel and the second bottom panel portion of each of the plurality ofsolar power units is disposed between adjacent building blocks and heldin place by the bonding material.
 11. The wall of claim 10, wherein atleast a portion of the plurality of solar power units are electricallyconnected to one another in at least one of a series configuration and aparallel configuration.
 12. The wall of claim 11, wherein at least aportion of the plurality of solar power units includes a positive lead,a negative lead, and two lead cavities, wherein one of the positive leadand the negative lead of one of the plurality of solar power units iselectrically connected to a lead cavity of a second of the plurality ofsolar power units.